Levi Roots calls on Britons to spice up their food

Celebrity chef wants people to cook up some special dishes in a bid to help refugees

14/02/2013 03:50 PM

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SUPPORT: Levi Roots is backing a special event aimed at celebrating the positive contribution that migrant communities have made to Britain’s diverse culinary and musical tastes

CELEBRITY CHEF Levi Roots is backing a special event aimed at celebrating the positive contribution that migrant communities have made to Britain’s diverse culinary and musical tastes.

The Jamaican-born musician and entrepreneur, who strummed his way to £50,000 worth of investment from the popular BBC series Dragon’s Den is supporting World Food Night which will take place on February 22.

The event, organised by the charity Refugee Action, is aiming to raise money to help asylum seekers and refugees who are rebuilding their lives in the UK.

Levi, who grew up in Brixton, south London, said: "World Food Night is not just a great way to banish the winter blues by spicing up your evening, it’s also an ideal way to try out exciting new dishes from around the world. We’re calling on supporters everywhere to put some carnival into their cooking by holding a special World Food Night event to raise awareness and dough for an important cause."

Refugee Action’s Chief Executive, Dave Garratt, said: “From tikka masala to tapas, stir fry noodles to sushi, the nation’s appetite for international cuisine has grown dramatically over the past few decades. Even the great British tradition of fish and chips can be traced back to Jewish refugees from Portugal and Spain in the 17th century.”

He added: “We have a lot to thank for the communities that have sought sanctuary here in the UK and the positive contribution they have made to the diverse culinary traditions that we enjoy today. World Food Night is a great way to break down barriers and support the UK’s proud tradition of welcome for people who are seeking protection’.

Supporters can cook up a recipe for change by ordering a free fundraising pack, and recipe suggestions by visiting www.worldfoodnight.org.uk